[chefboy2160]

What mystifies me is why anyone gives anyone a hard time about either choice.


Well I would guess that whatever set up a person has that is working for them is the best for them so naturally it should be that way for every one! There are many paths to the same destination so take the one you like best. Of course by investigating the other trails you can only expand your knowledge. I like my whetstones (I use them dry) and I have also used diamond stones as well as a ceramic dexter tri-hone, Automotive sandpaper , leather strop , smooth & grooved steels(no more grooves for me though). I have yet to use a belt sander or water stones but both have so many positive things said for them from there users I know I am going to have to learn both. Water stones seem to me the most intimidating of the methods but I know down the road I am going to learn it because I just love a good sharp knife. My only fear is that with the belt sander I have a feeling I just might get hooked as it just sounds so quick, and the polish with the charged leather belt must be quite nice on knives used for garnish and displays. I will be changing careers soon so will not have to worry so much on the volume and day in and out of knife prep but I am sure I will still be doing some catering for friends , family and even my new work place. What I want to do is really dial in my sharpening technique and get some good harder steel knives as well as learn how to use them.
I do enjoy sharpening a knife and playing with steel if you cant tell!!!!Doug....